PHARMACISTS in Victoria will be able to provide oral contraception and travel vaccines to patients if Labor wins the State election this weekend.
Incumbent Health Minister, Mary-Anne Thomas, announced that Labor will also trial pharmacist prescribing for urinary tract infections (UTI), should they retain office.
Under the proposed model, the State Government would fund pharmacists to deliver a range of services to ensure patients do not face out-of-pocket costs.
The pre-election pledge has been welcomed as a win for women's healthcare in the State, by Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) Victorian Branch President, John Jackson.
"Giving patients greater access to medicines and healthcare, whether it is renewing prescriptions for oral contraception, treatment for a UTI, or vaccination for overseas travel, is a great step forward for all Victorians," he said.
"Allowing women to access oral contraception and treatment for UTIs directly from their local pharmacist is about equitable, affordable, and timely access to healthcare.
"All Australians have felt the pressure on our health system. When patients can't see their GP, they're instead seeking care at a hospital Emergency Department or not getting treatment at all, which is regularly putting patients at risk of further complications.
"Pharmacists are accessible, skilled healthcare professionals that can work collaboratively with other healthcare providers to ensure all patients can access the care they need, when they need it.
"It's fantastic to see the Victorian Labor Party agree that pharmacists can and should be playing a greater role in primary healthcare."
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 23 Nov 22
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